Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has said that the visionary leadership, unbreakable willpower and indomitable patriotism of the Iron Man, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, led to the merger of 562 princely states, uniting a fragmented India into one nation after independence. His efforts to organise India into one nation are considered among the most remarkable administrative achievements in history. Combining firmness with compassion in his unique personality, he always stood steadfast on the principle of national interest first while being deeply empathetic towards the people. He truly understood the pulse of the public. Sardar Patel demonstrated through his life that true leadership is defined by clear vision, decisive action, a steadfast mind, firm determination and resolute decision-making.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav was addressing the gathering at Shaurya Smarak on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of the Iron Man, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, during the ‘Run for Unity’. The event was organised to promote the spirit of national unity and integrity. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav administered the oath of national unity to the attendees and flagged off the Run for Unity. He lit the ceremonial lamp to inaugurate the event and offered floral tributes to Bharat Mata and Sardar Patel. Patriotic songs were performed on the occasion.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that Sardar Patel came from a humble farmer’s family. His elder brother, Vitthalbhai Patel, and he both made remarkable contributions in their respective fields. On his brother’s advice, Vallabhbhai went abroad to pursue legal studies. After witnessing injustice against farmers, he joined Mahatma Gandhi’s movements and became a shining example in Indian politics. Following the Bardoli movement, he was conferred the title of ‘Sardar’. Whether it was the Salt Satyagraha or the Quit India Movement, Sardar Patel became the backbone of every national struggle. His contribution to India’s freedom movement was truly unmatched.